Olympic gold medallist Kerron Clement has come out as gay
The track and field athlete won gold and silver medals in 2008 and gold in 2016
By Steve Brown
Words: Steve Brown
Olympic gold medallist Kerron Clement has come out as gay.
The track and field athlete competed in the 2008 and 2016 Olympic games in Beijing and Rio de Janeiro and took home both gold and silver medals in 2008 and another gold during his Olympic return.
Now, the athlete has opened up about his sexuality to Out Magazine and said it is time to be ‘free’ after struggling with his sexuality for 17 years.
He said: “I was tired of loving in the dark. I have been through what a lot of people have been through which is being afraid of being who you are.
“I struggled with my sexuality for 17 years. Over time, as you get older, you care less. Now it’s time to just be yourself and be free. That’s what I’ve become, free.”
The Trinidadian-American also opened up about his family’s reaction to him coming out and said although it was difficult, they are supportive.
He continued: “My sister was disappointed, but because I didn’t tell her sooner because she could’ve been there for me and I wouldn’t have had to do it by myself.
“Once you have that peace — and I have that peace — you can exhale and move feeling lighter.”